When an ESL online school put a cap on the maximum number of hours a teacher can teach and then allows a "choice few" break this policy, would you consider this discriminatory and unethical? Secondly, when a teacher brings this to the attention of the president and gets 'sacked' because of it, what would you do? Feedback would be appreciated._________________Vernon G. Stamm, MA

What you are saying is, is it ethical for a director or Head to dole out extra work unequally to different employees against company policy to limit hours?

The answer is that if management breaks company policy in such an emotional issue as money, playing favorites, he usually is advised to explain his motivation or face worker revolt, revulsion. In effect, he is the boss, he can do as he pleases in private situations. But usually there is a price to pay among workers in terms of loyalty, and emotional distress. So obviously stating a formal rule and breaking it is unethical, especially if no reason is given for breaking the "covenant''. You understand me? The moral obligations come from religious and cultural norms, and may even tie into anthropological and health issues too. But much of the negative behaviour you suggest is because of changing cultural norms in that society. You probably were brought up to believe in high moral conduct, whereas the manager may not think his behaviour needs to be taken that seriously, or has such an impact.

In the end, it doesn't matter what that person does, but how you respond. Are you reactive, is this a deal breaker for you personally? Were you angry because you were surprised by this ethical breach? Or because of your expectations for certain standards of behaviour from your boss? If you think this person is unethical and behaves in an poor way, is your work environment such that you can comfortably assert yourself? Can you get someone with a higher degree of status there to reign this person in? Does the person break laws, informally or not, regularly? You might reach a point where coping with ethical issues is more trouble and stress than it's worth. In short, there is an old saying, there is the boss's way, or the door way in some cases. Vote with your feet if your ideals require a higher level of conduct. These are the only possible solutions to your issue.